Reviewing the IotaVX SA3 and PA3 Combo!

[@fantom29comp]

I have the IOTA stack. The PA3 power light will turn off with the SA3 but you have to connect the included 3.5mm control wire. This stack is powerful and they will drive demanding speakers. Cant go wrong for the price.

[@audiorick841]

I have a set up a little bit similar to what you tested. I have a SA3 and PA3 hooked up to an RT 85 via a Mani. And a Bluesound node for the streaming. I therefore do not use the built-in phono and DAC although they were not too bad. I agree with your assessment and description. Great little amps/preamp. The only thing I wish it had for me was a trigger in so the external streamer could turn the amp on and off because right now I leave them on 24/7.

[@TheHammerofDissidence]

I've had the stack for a few years now. I think it very well may be the best sounding amp(s) for the money. I've overhauled my system dramatically around these amps and they've been very transparent throughout each change. I recently tried a Denon PMA-1600NE in my system and the IOTAVX stack absolutely decimated it (the Denon was dark and veiled by comparison). HOWEVER... I have read about customers having QC issues with their amps recently and product support is borderline nonexistent. Keep this in mind.

[@danashay]

Woof. Well said. Good job!

[@Cosmican68]

FYI. I just had an issue with the PA3 and they were very responsive. I got a replacement unit just 10 days after reporting my issue. And they paid to have my original unit returned to them. I’ve had the stack for close to two years and have really enjoyed it.

[@TheHammerofDissidence]

@@Cosmican68 that's good to hear. Apparently it's a mixed bag regarding service but hopefully they've turned things around. The amps really are fantastic sounding, especially for the price.

[@jikenj]

Another fine review it's nice to see the UB5s included with this review as I am an owner and fan of the elac line and I didn't have to go to Texas to realize that haha thanks again!!

[@thevinylattack]

I'm glad you liked it.

[@jackstraw1756]

Well I just received my PA3 today, man what a difference. Really enjoying them, blasted Dark Side of the Mule and now am streaming some Ginger Baker Trio at the moment. I’m seriously thinking of getting another, and down the road a nice Preamp, maybe some Schiit Freya. Oh man I love this setup and the flexibility it can offer.

[@thevinylattack]

I'm glad to hear it's working out so well for you.

[@dulichion]

I have this setup with the Freya, you wont be disappointed.

[@justincasey2336]

Love your reviews Chris! Thank you. I have the pair of amps with a blue sound node and début carbon Evo with a ifi zen phono. Very happy with what I have considering the budget. One neat thing I found that was with the unnecessarily multi buttoned remote was that you can use the node to program the excess buttons which means one remote to control them all. Play/pause/skip. Doesn't sound like much but found it kinda handy. Also agree with the change in sound, tried using the simple amp for the heck of it and that did make everything a little cleaner than the integrated on its own. Worth a try for anyone maybe? Also found that it didnt drive the new unifi reference bookshelves until the volume was, er, un-neighbourly. Felt like it wasn't getting the best out of the speakers but have a few Dali, Klipsch speakers and they paired better for sure.

[@thevinylattack]

Those Elac's are just damned hard to drive.

[@scottbennett3119]

Great review! 3D layering front to back, where can I find that in a sub-$2000 integrated amplifier? Can you point me to some units I can investigate that have 3D qualities? Thanks..

[@miguelrosado6125]

I live in Puerto Rico and I purchased first the iota SA3 and months later the PA3 I was stacking them and noticed excessive heat buildup so Now I have them aide by side in addition I have added taller feet to increase the clearance for better cooling. Hope this helps.

[@noblesavage23]

Great insights and another great video. I purchased the SA3 two years ago and love it. It's everything I expected from an integrated amp and much much more. I added a tube buffer ( FOZ SSX), Rega Planar 2, an ifi Iphono2 (Discontinued) with an AT vm540 stylus and a THX Onyx dac from my laptop. That said, a pair of Triangle Br03.. sheer bliss. The SA3 is an outstanding amp that allows you to explore other external components that suit your taste. If that's not your thing, the SA3 is the perfect standalone piece of kit.

[@thevinylattack]

It's definitely a versatile amp.

[@mikesantos6156]

Omg I just replaced the elys2 with AT vem 540 on my planar 2 as well and love it so much! Additionally also looking at IOTA and BR03 to replace NAD 3020 + Wharfedale D220

[@myles7522]

A great review…..I’ve got the SA3 and I’m delighted with it….👍

[@thevinylattack]

Great to hear!

[@dulichion]

I have the VX PA3 paired with a Schiit Mani/Magni/Freya combo running an Mp-110. So far so good. Although, I think down the road I will add tubes to the mix.

[@thevinylattack]

Sounds like a nice setup.

[@craigclark8097]

Hello Chris - Hope you are having a Delightful Day!! Thanks for another insightful review. How would you compare Sound of the ROTEL A 11 Tribute to the IOTASA3? Features seem pretty comparable... Thank you!!

[@thevinylattack]

As I recall (as it's been a while since I've had the tribute in home) the A11 is just more refined. There's more room to grow with that amp.

[@gokhanersan8561]

@@thevinylattack this is music to my rotel owner’s ears:)

[@MrDraven37]

Another great review Chris, really enjoyed hearing your thoughts. For my integrated amp I went with the Cambridge Audio axa35, and it has the same thing with the volume coming up with - db’s. As you mentioned, it doesn’t take long at all to get used to it.

[@thevinylattack]

I had that Cambridge for a while and quite liked it.

[@knotslip8862]

Great review. So nice to see someone reviewing equipment that listens to rock/metal. How do you think the SA3 compares to the Rotel A11 Tribute?

[@thevinylattack]

The SA3 is nice, but the Rotel is certainly more refined.

[@damayor62]

Thank you Chris. I haven't seen anything on the SA3 in a long time so it was great to watch this review. You have confirmed the SA3 is on my integrated amp short list for a very good reason. Now the question is, do I wait for one of my current components to die or just buy an SA3? Keep up the great work and rock on.

[@thevinylattack]

It never hurts to have backups.

[@damayor62]

@@thevinylattack After reading Sean at Zero Fidelity's community post the other day giving kudos to Iota for NOT raising their prices I pulled the trigger on a SA3. Thank you again and keep up the great work.

[@VMX1.]

My friend has both..she loves them. Great review Chris. All the best.

[@thevinylattack]

Thanks.

[@Ab20222]

Have you tried bi-amping in stereo mode?I had the same issue as you with the combo in the mono setup, i’m glad that I’m not losing my mind. So, since my speakers PSB silver-i (89dB) support bi-amping, i’ve switched SA3 & PA3 back to stereo mode and have connected PA3 to lows and SA3 to mid-highs. It’s sounding much better now.

[@thevinylattack]

I haven't, but I've heard that it's a good idea more than once now so I'll probably give it a try.

[@martybousum1010]

I own both. Love them!

[@thevinylattack]

They're an excellent buy.

[@martybousum1010]

@@thevinylattack The PA3 front less dim to same level of SA3 when supplied 1/8 jack cable connects both dimmer designated locations on rear.

[@pegabo]

Hi Chris …Awesome and refreshing review! I owned an SA3 2 years ago but had to sadly return it due to a malfunction, I still have no idea what was wrong with it. The team at IOTAVX, Ian and Sarah had no hesitation in taking it back after a year and fully reimbursed it included the return shipping. Although I have many amps, recent and vintage, the IOTAVX always had a special place in my collection and I always regretted having to return it. That being said, today I just received my 2 new PA3’s. My plan is to bridge them and use them as Monoblocs to keep that sound purity without the need of the extra DAC, volume control and inputs. What are your thoughts on the PA3 alone in comparison to the SA3? Any experience on using one mono amp per channel ? Any suggestions or recommendations on a good tube preamplifier? I was thinking of Rolls Bellari PA 555 full analog tube preamp or a Schiit Saga plus tube preamp, both connected from my Bluesound node 2i streaming Tidal HIFI. Your thoughts would be greatly appreciate. Thanks !

[@thevinylattack]

I only used the PA3 connected to the SA3, so that's all I can really speak about.

[@hugobloemers4425]

Nice review, Chris, have you tried the PA3 with a high end pre-amplifier? The SA3 and PA3 are supposed to have the same power amp. So it would be interesting to see how good the power amp is in comparison to the pre-amp.

[@thevinylattack]

I haven't. I may get around to it before I have to send it back though.

[@0bzen22]

Had the stack for a while. Not much to compare it to, had a Marantz PM6006 before. SA3 is more airy and neutral IMO, Marantz had some party tricks (loudness, manual EQ, two channel outputs). Does the job for me nicely. Hooked to a pair of RP600M and a SVS SB1000 at the moment, nothing fancy.

[@thevinylattack]

I can see the SA3 being more airy and neutral than a Marantz.

[@Pogue4]

Another Fantastic Video Thanks...

[@thevinylattack]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@tamstutz921]

Chris, thanks for this review. I’ve had an SA3 for a while, now. I’ve never owned a phono stage, but am looking into it. What are some MM’s that would definitely be an upgrade to the SA3’s internal phono stage? Thanks

[@thevinylattack]

It would depend on your budget.

[@tamstutz921]

@@thevinylattack Actually, that’s part of my question, how much should my budget be in order to markedly improve what the SA3 already has? Is there something under $1,000 that would do it? Thanks

[@thevinylattack]

@@tamstutz921 If you're talking about just a phono stage, there are several options under a grand that would be an improvement to the SA3's built-in unit. I really like the iFi Zen Phono.

[@tamstutz921]

@@thevinylattack Thank you, Chris. That is one I’ve been considering.

[@thevinylattack]

@@tamstutz921 No worries. I'm certain you'll love it.

[@jackstraw1756]

I’m starting out on a true separate audio system for music, what I really wanted to start out with was not in my budget. Decided on the SA3 and a pair of Wharefdale D320s on sale, Also got a wiim as a temporary piece and will pick up a Fluance 85 and most likely the ifi zen phono over the next couple of months. Any feedback is appreciated.

[@thevinylattack]

Sounds like you're on your way.

[@martybousum1010]

The PA3 front dims to same level of SA3 when supplied 1/8 jack cable that connects both dimmer designated locations on rear. Iotavx means literally 'high value versus cost.'

[@thevinylattack]

Yeah, I missed that the first go around.

[@danashay]

Wow. Wow. Wow. THAT video was a piece of work! (maybe a little rushed...) Holy cow. Bravo! Very well done! Your peers should be squirming...(!)

[@thevinylattack]

That's just the way I talk ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@peterseaman9542]

Folks - if your speakers are rated 8 Ohms - do try connecting the SA3 to the PA3 in 'normal' stereo mode so both pair of speaker cables in to the PA3 and the both little switches on 'stereo' - i found this configuration produced an all-round better sound-stage, with better bass depth and clarity than the 'mono' bridged mode as shown in all these videos and in the manual. If you don't really need the extra watts to your speakers - mine are 88db - then give this normal configuration a go - you may be surprised.

[@thevinylattack]

Certainly worth a try.

[@waldowsxxghostxx8577]

Is there a way to connect an external DAC?

[@thevinylattack]

Of course. Line out of the DAC and in to the integrated amp. Easy peasy.

[@gokhanersan8561]

How does the iota stack perform compared to the Rotel a11 ?

[@thevinylattack]

It's been a while since I've had the Rotel here, but I'd lean toward that over the IotaVX.

[@coda514]

#DEELAY, you sir, are a god among men. The review was pretty good too.

[@thevinylattack]

I think my brain got ahead of my mouth in that bit.

[@DeSoLaToR22]

I bought the Dali rubicon 6 speakers and I was wondering if OTAVX SA3 + PA3 Combo works well with them. Anyone who could help me?

[@thevinylattack]

I wouldn't see why not.

[@5FWS5]

What's the "controvercial image"?

[@thevinylattack]

You can find it pretty easy by doing a quick search.

[@10MEGAMETAL]

Can I use both and hook up 2 pairs of speakers?? 1 pair on S3 and another on P3? That will make 100 watts right??or I can't do it

[@thevinylattack]

Unfortunately, that won't work.

[@rayking507]

Yes you can connect 1 speaker to the SA3 and another one to the PA3. The SA3 has a bridge mode so does the PA3. Bridged mode for SA3 is rated at 100W for 8ohm speakers and a huge180W for 4ohm speakers. This is the same for the PA3. So with both the SA3 and the PA3 on bridge mode you can get up to 180watts per channel.

[@davidcheung6748]

❤

[@ToddChilton]

The power button on the PA3 should be dimmable with the trigger connection.

[@thevinylattack]

Unfortunately I found that out after the review. Facepalm moment.

[@stevensmith8793]

Chris, with all due respect, I feel like maybe you missed the boat a little bit by not using (and describing) the sub output feature. Particularly if you are leaning towards the SA3 standing on it's own. Seems like implementation of a subwoofer might be very useful if you are not going to utilize the full power of the combined stack. Just my thoughts.

[@thevinylattack]

Perhaps. Although there's really not much to say about plugging in a sub.

[@stevensmith8793]

@@thevinylattack I'm just thinking that the potential consumer at the Iota stack price point is looking for that "bang for the buck" scenario. Probably some 5 1/4" 2 way speakers that could use a sub to round out the sound, An amp with a sub out (especially if it has bass management) would make a compelling option

[@thevinylattack]

@@stevensmith8793 The only sub I have in home to show is the SVS 3000 Micro. It's not exactly in the price range you're talking about.

[@lsaideOK]

Are there any amps that you would pair with the integrated in a similar price range to the iota?

[@thevinylattack]

As in, a power amp to connect to the SA3?

[@lsaideOK]

@@thevinylattack Yes, if there is a better one than the iota amp. Since you say it's not 100% great for the SA3

[@thevinylattack]

@@lsaideOK The PA3 is a fine amp, and pairs extremely well with the SA3. I was just more of a fan of the SA3's sound on its own. Honestly, I would give the PA3 a try. The synergy of the two products will guarantee they play well together, and the sound might suit you more than it did me.

[@lsaideOK]

@@thevinylattack I ask because I have heard less than satisfactory things about the combination from other reviewers as well as you. That leads me to believe that I would feel the same way.

[@thevinylattack]

@@lsaideOK Fair enough. Unfortunately, nothing specific comes to mind. Especially in that price range. My apologies.

[@SlippstersVideos]

Red buttons kil it for me, now if they were green ... 🤔🤔🤔🤔 Dig your chanel bro

[@thevinylattack]

I actually like the red. I also like them dimmed a bit though.

[@craigrobertson9667]

About the volume display, the number actually gets larger as the volume increases. For example, -50 is a larger number than -75.

[@thevinylattack]

Fair enough.

[@charlesludwig9173]

What does it cost?

[@thevinylattack]

As stated, the SA3 is about $544 right now. I think I did fail to mention the PA3 which is $407.

[@visu4239]

If you connect/link up the two amps they will turn off and on, and dim together.

[@thevinylattack]

They didn't for me.

[@visu4239]

@@thevinylattack sorry, I forgot to mention that you need to link the amps trigger and dimmer port. You need two 3.5 mm aux cables, the type that comes with ear phones, you need to connect the amps via the tiny trigger and dimmer ports on the back of the amp.

[@thevinylattack]

@@visu4239 Excellent information. I'm embarrassed I didn't figure that out.

[@visu4239]

@@thevinylattack I was on the same boat until I saw zero fidelity’s video. It’s a great amp, have a great day man.

[@mattkalis1567]

I really wanted to like the SA3. But I returned mine and kept the Emotiva TA-100. The SA3 sounded too bright and sterile to me. I liked the more "muscular" Emotiva better. The Emotiva also didn't sound as muddy and fat bottomed as my Denon. The Emotiva probably isn't the better rig, but it fit my taste better. To be fair, I really wish I would have used an external DAC that I trust before returning the SA3. I was just comparing the internal DACs for these units.

[@thevinylattack]

If you found what you like, you're doing it correctly.

[@mattkalis1567]

@@thevinylattack hey Chris, where in MI are you? I am in Minnesota now, but I grew up near Lansing, went to college at Michigan Tech, and spent many years living in Holland.

[@thevinylattack]

@@mattkalis1567 I'm in the Metro Detroit area.

[@erics.4113]

Iota is somehow related to NAD? From an engineering standpoint..

[@thevinylattack]

I have no information on that.

[@erics.4113]

@@thevinylattack Me either. I could be hallucinating all of this. Am I even an audiophile? Lol So I looked up and found some legacy Nakamichi relationships but nothing with NAD so not sure where I heard that this amp could have been the next NAD product. Maybe as an OEM for other companies?. Audio is a small world I'm sure if you dug deep enough there are only few degrees separating any company or product. I don't even know what the point of my comment is. I regret everything

[@thevinylattack]

@@erics.4113 You may be on to something.

[@HeyYall398]

IOTAVX product might be of good quality, but their customer service leaves much to be desired. If you encounter an issue, wish to file a warranty claim, or need to return their product, you may find that they do not respond to your emails or calls. I strongly recommend considering products from companies known for good customer service, especially if you value responsive support in the event that things don't go as planned.

[@nacarp2000]

Instead of running them bridged, how about biamping suitable speakers instead to see how that compares.

[@thevinylattack]

I'll see if I can't give that a shot.

[@Linux_Lucy]

U R a little ( LOT ) Late to the Party ! ! These amps have been Reviewed 'to death' already ! ! ! !

[@thevinylattack]

Not by me they haven't.

[@nacarp2000]

They are still worthy, and people are still looking to buy stuff.

[@henrygraf7860]

Taking to fast

[@thevinylattack]

That's just the way I talk.